Name: Apple Upside‑Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love Apple Upside‑Down Cake Recipe

This recipe brings together juicy apples, warm spices, and sweet caramel for a dessert that tastes like homemade comfort. The apple layer becomes perfectly caramelized during baking, and the cake stays soft and tender. It’s easier than you might think, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pan prep
butter or non‑stick spray for greasing

apple topping
apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
butter
brown sugar
ground cinnamon

cake batter
all‑purpose flour
baking powder
salt
granulated sugar
softened butter
eggs
vanilla extract
milk or buttermilk
optional warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9‑inch cake pan well with butter or non‑stick spray.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the apple topping. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and tilt to coat evenly. Arrange the apple slices in overlapping layers over the caramel.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any additional spices you’re using.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Spread the cake batter evenly over the apple layer in the pan.
Bake for about 40–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the apple side becomes the top. Peel off any parchment if used and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This cake typically serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: about 20–25 minutes
Baking time: about 40–55 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Apple Version: Add extra warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, or apple pie spice to the cake batter for a cozy flavor.
• Mixed Fruit: Swap half of the apples for pears or peaches for a fruity twist.
• Caramel Drizzle: After flipping the cake, drizzle a simple caramel sauce over the top before serving.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the apple layer before adding the cake batter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven at low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until just warm.

FAQs

What type of apples should I use?

Firm apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Golden Delicious, work best.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare it a day ahead, cool completely, and cover in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper on the bottom of the pan can help ensure the cake releases cleanly, but it’s optional if your pan is well greased.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Watch the sugar and butter closely as they heat; once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth, remove from heat to avoid burning.

Can I use a different sweetener?

You can experiment with light or dark brown sugar. Other sweeteners may change texture and sweetness level.

Is this recipe suitable for a bundt pan?

Yes, you can use a bundt pan, but be sure to grease it thoroughly and adjust baking time as needed.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make it gluten‑free?

Yes. Substitute a quality gluten‑free all‑purpose flour blend in equal measure.

What should I serve with this cake?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

This Apple Upside‑Down Cake is a delightful dessert that showcases caramelized apples and tender cake in every bite. With simple steps, familiar ingredients, and plenty of room for creative variations, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for holidays, gatherings, or cozy weekend treats.